Katren (Child)

Katren Child Bolero by Leeana Gardiner

What Is Being Made

The Katren is a cropped cardigan bolero designed for children, inspired by the character Katren from Traci Harding's novel The Ancient Future. This intermediate-level knitting project creates an elegant, fitted garment that showcases cable stitch detailing. The bolero is button-front and available in multiple child sizes ranging from 12 months through 10 years, making it a versatile pattern for growing children or as a gift option across age ranges.

Sizes and Yarn Requirements

The Katren pattern includes ten size options to accommodate children from infancy through early childhood:

• 12 months, 18 months, 2 years, 3 years: 115g–165g of yarn (230m–330m or 250–360 yards)
• 4 years, 5 years, 6 years: 180g–220g of yarn (360m–440m or 395–480 yards)
• 7 years, 8 years, 10 years: 250g–320g of yarn (500m–635m or 546–695 yards)

The pattern calls for Bendigo Woollen Mills 8 ply Luxury yarn, a DK weight yarn that provides a soft, refined finish suitable for children's garments.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate knitting project employs cable stitch techniques as the primary decorative element. The pattern includes a dedicated Katren Cable Chart that guides knitters through the cable pattern placement and progression. Cable knitting requires the use of a cable needle to create the twisted, rope-like texture that forms the design's visual interest. The garment is constructed using circular needles, which allows for seamless or nearly seamless construction and provides flexibility in working flat or in the round depending on the pattern instructions.

Needles, Gauge, and Tools

Knitters will need US Size 6 or 4mm circular needles, or the size required to obtain the specified gauge. The pattern gauge is 22 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters), which is essential to achieve the correct finished size. Additional tools include a darning needle for weaving in yarn ends, 4 stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping, and 4–6 buttons depending on the chosen size (the pattern photos show a sample with 3 buttons, though larger sizes may accommodate additional buttons).

Design Inspiration and Character

The Katren bolero draws inspiration from the tender-hearted character Katren in Traci Harding's beloved novel. According to the designer Leeana Gardiner, Katren embodies kindness and serves as the nurturing figure of her group, qualities reflected in the garment's elegant, caring aesthetic. The design philosophy emphasizes transformation and grace, creating a cropped cardigan that balances sophistication with the playful charm appropriate for children's wear.